Province Presents to Diplomatic Forum on Prince Edward Island’s Place in the World

Premier's Office
As a small province, Prince Edward Island has always had to look outwards and this has given us a deep understanding and respect for the wider world, says Premier Robert Ghiz.

Speaking to an international diplomatic forum today in Charlottetown, Premier Ghiz said that most small islands must search beyond their geographic boundaries for opportunities. “In doing so, we have developed ties with many countries and cultures that helped us to grow our economy, increase our population and build diversity in our communities,” said the premier.

As host of the four-day diplomatic forum, Prince Edward Island had the full day today to showcase its economic strengths, innovation and international trade opportunities. Premier Ghiz, cabinet ministers and officials made presentations on the theme, Prince Edward Island’s Place in the World.

Agriculture Minister George Webster presented an overview of the agriculture industry which accounts for over 15 per cent of the gross provincial product, and one out every four jobs in the province.

“Prince Edward Island is famous around the world for our world class potatoes, our champion dairy cows and the distinct quality and taste of our beef,” he said. “We continue to invest in new trade opportunities that help us to keep our industry economically viable, environmentally responsible and socially responsive.”

Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Neil LeClair provided highlights of the fishing and aquaculture industries which have a value of over $350 million and employ more than 9,000 people.

“Our lobster is a premiere seafood of choice and we produce and export more than 80 per cent of the mussels produced in Canada,” said Mr. LeClair. “The provincial government is committed to supporting increased trade and investment in the primary resource industries which are vitally important to our economy and way of life.”

Director of Tourism Marketing Brenda Gallant presented an overview of the tourism industry on behalf of Minister of Tourism and Culture Robert Vessey.

In 2009, tourism added $374 million to the Island economy and generated $43 million in provincial tax revenue which was used to fund health and education programs.

Ms. Gallant outlined several initiatives to grow tourism on the Island. These include a new $20 million convention centre, improved online booking processes, major event marketing, and culinary and experiential tourism.

“Through partnerships like the Culinary Alliance, we are working together to build awareness of the Island brand as a world class food and vacation destination. By linking products to place, we are getting much greater value from our marketing efforts,” said Ms. Gallant.

Innovation and Advanced Learning Minister Alan Campbell was the keynote speaker at the luncheon. He provided an overview of the provincial plan for economic and social prosperity.

In addition to supporting the primary industries, the provincial government is supporting the diversification of the Island economy in four key areas: bioscience, information technology, aerospace and renewable energy.

“Prosperity is something that grows out of natural and cultural resources, combined with an innovative and insightful business community, and driven by the energies of people,” he said. “Government is creating the conditions for prosperity in key industries where our natural resources and expertise can meet emerging opportunities in the global economy.”

More than 125 delegates are attending the forum which runs from September 26 to 29. They include ambassadors, high commissioners, federal ministers and senior officials from over 70 countries. The event is organized by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.

Media Contact: Geoff Townsend